What if the walls of Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast could talk? They would tell a story of community, faith and transformation. Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its congregation.
Let’s step back in time. The evangelical Lutheran Christophorusgemeinde began as a branch of the Leuben Church. Initially, the community gathered in a humble parish hall. It was located inside a joinery on Leubener Straße.
As the congregation grew, so did their desire for independence. Around 1990, they took the step to become self-governing. They chose the name Christophorusgemeinde. Finally in 1994, the Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast found its permanent home. The address is Hermann-Seidel-Straße 3.
Architects Jörg and Horst Engert designed a modern building. It featured a church hall, garden room and community spaces. The Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast was consecrated on May 7 1996.
Interestingly, the name “Christophorus” has a deep connection to Laubegast’s history. Saint Christopher is the patron saint of traders, travelers and ferrymen. Laubegast, situated on the Elbe River, was historically a ford and ferry point. For a long time, a depiction of Saint Christopher adorned a building near this former ford.
When the congregation sought a name for their new community, local historian Mr. Schaarschmidt suggested “Christophorus”. The name resonated with everyone. The external reference was apparent. The spiritual connection was profound.
Legend says Christopher was a giant. He only wanted to serve the most powerful ruler on Earth. His quest led him to a hermit. The hermit taught him the Christian faith. As service to God, Christopher used his size and strength to carry people across a raging river.
One day, he carried Christ as a child. The weight threatened to overwhelm him. Then he recognized the most powerful being. He received the name Christophorus meaning Christ-bearer. As an outward sign his gnarled staff began to sprout.
In this spirit, the Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast strives to carry the message of Christ through time. They share the good news of reconciliation and God’s love.
Inside the Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast, you will find treasures. Some furnishings came from the interim church. These include an altar table, lectern and a Christophorus painting by Eberhard von der Erde.
A special feature is the Jehmlich organ. It was built in 1970. Before finding its place here, it stood in the parish hall of the Dresden-Leuben parish. In 2006, the Christophorusgemeinde rejoined its mother church in Leuben.
The organ has one manual and an attached pedal. It boasts five registers. Its sound fills the sanctuary during services. The Christophorus Kirchgemeindezentrum Dresden-Laubegast continues to be a beacon. It is a place of worship, community and spiritual growth in Dresden-Laubegast.